Some Common Plants of Upper Newport Bay

Bush Sunflower, California Encelia  (Encelia californica)
Plant: An abundant, many branched perennial shrub that  has a woody base and grows in clumps that are between 2 and 5 feet tall.  Common.
Flowers: There is only one flower head on each stalk.  The flowers are a bright yellow "sunflower" with a red brown center.
Stem and Leaf: Lance shaped, 1 to 2-1/2 inches long.  Smooth, wavy edge, green and somewhat woolly.
Flowering period:   March through June
Use by Indians:  
Can be found here:  Big Canyon, Bayview Nature Trail, Back Bay Drive,
Interpretive Center.
Native Plant:  Yes Halophyte: No
Family Name: Sunflower
Click on Picture for enlarged version

Date: 7/31/2005